Why Camellia Buds Drop Before Opening in Vancouver

The Problem

A young camellia in Vancouver (planted last summer, SW exposure, good soil) forms buds that fall off before opening. Leaves look healthy.

Common Causes of Bud Drop

• Temperature swings: Freezing nights followed by warm days—common in coastal winters.
• Moisture fluctuation: Too wet or too dry soil.
• Variety mismatch: Late‑blooming types may drop buds as spring temperatures rise.
• Bud mites: Microscopic eriophyid mites feed inside buds.

What to Do

1. Mulch to stabilize soil moisture and temperature.
2. Water consistently—don’t let root ball dry out.
3. If only a few buds drop, it’s often normal; if chronic, consider a earlier‑blooming variety.
4. For bud mites: apply a miticide when buds first set, or try an organic brix‑booster (e.g., Atomic Grow).